Sponsored by the Gemological Institute of America
Plumb Club Hires Michael O’Connor as Marketing Director
The industry veteran’s experience spans more than 35 years and includes roles in retail, manufacturing and design.

New York—The Plumb Club has hired industry veteran Michael O’Connor as its marketing director, effective immediately.
In his new role, O’Connor will work with the executive team to create, develop and implement its strategic marketing plan, including communication and PR strategies.
He also will support the organization’s current programs, projects, and events.
O’Connor has been in the industry for more than 35 years and has experience across a variety of categories, including retail, manufacturing and design, with a focus for the past three decades on strategic marketing.
He has held positions as director of corporate marketing for Frederick Goldman, Inc., as well as senior vice president for Platinum Guild International USA and chief marketing officer of Christopher Designs.
O’Connor also has been president of his own firm, Style & Substance, working with clients such as The Couture Show, Rio Tinto, PGI, Benchmark, Leo Schachter, HSN and JTV.
He’s also known in television media as an industry expert, appearing on numerous shows like Today, ET, Extra, Access Hollywood, QVC, and other programs across the country.
“We were thrilled to be able to bring on someone of Michael’s caliber and experience to head up our marketing,” Plumb Club President Michael Lerche said. “We believe that his knowledge of the industry and understanding of our vision and objectives, combined with his proven track record will help us achieve our goals.”
O’Connor added: “I’ve already had the great opportunity to work with The Plumb Club and many of its prestigious members. I’m excited to help the organization with their vision of shaping the future of the jewelry industry.”
The Latest

Simon Wolf shares why the time was right to open a new office here, what he looks for in a retail partner, and why he loves U.S. consumers.

A third-generation jeweler, Ginsberg worked at his family’s store, Ginsberg Jewelers, from 1948 until his retirement in 2019.

The risk of laboratory-grown diamonds being falsely presented as natural diamonds presents a very significant danger to consumer trust.

The company failed to file its quarterly reports in a timely manner.


The organization also announced its board of directors.

Charms may be tiny but with their small size comes endless layering possibilities, from bracelets to necklaces and earrings.

Paola Sasplugas, co-founder of the Barcelona-based jewelry brand, received the Fine Jewelry Award.

A platinum Zenith-powered Daytona commissioned in the late ‘90s will headline Sotheby’s Important Watches sale in Geneva next month.

The Signet Jewelers-owned retailer wants to encourage younger shoppers to wear fine jewelry every day, not just on special occasions.

The 21 pieces, all from a private collector, will be offered at its Magnificent Jewels auction next month.

Lilian Raji answers a question from a reader who is looking to grow her jewelry business but has a limited marketing budget.

GCAL by Sarine created the new role to sharpen the company’s focus on strategic partnerships and scalable expansion.

The Indiana jeweler has acquired Scottsdale Fine Jewelers in Scottsdale, Arizona.

“Cartier: Design, Craft, and Legacy” opened earlier this month at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

Van Cott Jewelers in Vestal, New York, is hosting a going-out-of-business sale.

Industry veteran Samantha Larson has held leadership roles at Borsheims, McTeigue & McClelland, Stuller, and Long’s Jewelers.
The two organizations will hold the educational event together this fall in Mississippi.

The entrepreneur and “Shark Tank” star will share his top tips for success.

The Ukrainian brand’s new pendant is modeled after a traditional paska, a pastry often baked for Easter in Eastern European cultures.

The jeweler has announced a grand reopening for its recently remodeled location in Peoria, Illinois.

The “Strong Like Mom” campaign features moms who work at Tiffany & Co. and their children.

Interior designer Athena Calderone looked to decor from the 1920s and 1930s when crafting her first fine jewelry collection.

During a call about its full-year results, CEO Efraim Grinberg discussed how the company is approaching the uncertainty surrounding tariffs.

The free program provides educational content for jewelry salespeople and enthusiasts to learn or refresh their diamond knowledge.

The feedback will be used to prepare other jewelers for the challenges ahead, the organization said.